Olive leaf comes from the leaves of an olive plant. It contains an active ingredient called oleuropein. This nutrient is thought to contribute to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of olive leaf.
Olive leaf is a natural source of wellness that can:
- lowers blood pressure
- reduces cardiovascular risk, like atherosclerosis
- helps treats type 2 diabetes
- supports weight loss
- eliminates free radicals
- boosts immunity
- fights herpes
- reduces inflammation
- prevents cancer
Here’s what research says about the biggest reported benefits of olive leaf.
Improves heart health
Researchers believe olive leaf can have positive effects on atherosclerosis, or narrowing of the arteries, which is the highest risk factor for heart disease. High levels of LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, and total cholesterol are risk factors for developing this disease.
Treats herpes
To treat herpes with olive leaf extract, drop 1 to 2 droplets on a cotton ball and place on the sore. One study found that olive leaf extract’s antiviral and antimicrobial factors reduce the ability of the herpes virus to invade surrounding cells.
Protects the brain against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
Oleuropein is also shown to have a protection against Alzheimer’s disease. The antioxidant effects of olive leaf extract may also help with preventing damage or loss of dopamine neurons that’s associated with Parkinson’s disease as well.
Lowers blood pressure
Olive leaf may help lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Lower blood pressure can reduce your risk of stroke and heart attack.
Treats type 2 diabetes
It was found that olive leaf can help improve insulin secretion in cells and:
- reduce hyperglycemia
- reduce hyperinsulinemia (too much insulin in the blood)
- reduce blood glucose, plasma malondialdehyde, and other signs of oxidative stress (an imbalance of free radicals that can harm the body)
- reduce cholesterol
- decrease serum glucose
- increase serum insulin
Supports weight management
Along with heart-healthy benefits and type 2 diabetes protection, it makes sense that olive leaf could also help with weight loss. It’s thought that olive leaf prevents obesity by regulating the expression of genes that affect weight gain. It can also aid in reducing food intake.
Reduces cancer risk
Olive leaf has been shown to stop cancerous cell growth.
Olive leaf side effects
If you take any blood pressure medication or blood thinners or have diabetes, check with your doctor before taking olive leaf extract. It’s possible to develop severe respiratory allergic reactions.